[yukon-rose]

Due to limited space, I need to use a COG rail in parts of my as yet not installed roadbed.

I've looked for a rack loco but they are scarce and therefore expensive. So I'd like to use an LGB 0-4-0 loco as the engine and add a rack gear to it myself.

Is that possible?

Gary

 

[Pete Thornton]

use an LGB 0-4-0 loco as the engine and add a rack gear to it myself.

Is that possible?

It's possible, but likely to be very difficult. An LGB 0-4-0 is not a very large loco.

For a start, you have to calculate the diameter and pitch of the rack cog so that when it is engaged the regular wheels are still turning at the same rate and not slipping. Then you have to mount it and connect it to the driving axle(s).

I'd be inclined to buy one from LGB.

 

[Greg Elmassian]

Rack locos tend to be a bit heavier to keep them on the slope, I would not start with a small 0-4-0 either.

 

[stevedenver]

And most relevantly, the lgb electric cog box locos have a super heavy duty motor with overload protection.

I respectfully suggest you bite the bullet and buy a used one. I see these from time To time around 325+ -.

if you are planning to simply buy a cog axel and jerry rig it, im thinking itll pull itself and no more, and, youll wear gears and worms quickly

 

[yukon-rose]

I would not start with a small 0-4-0 either.

I'm not opposed to something larger. It's just that I have VERY limited space - just about large enough for a 10' diameter loop. So the footprint of the
0-4-0 appeals to me.

Gary

 

[Greg Elmassian]

You were fine until you wanted a rack loco

 

[stevedenver]

The lgb electric box cab rack has about the same footprint, fwiw. Its about the same size as the euro starter set passenger cars.
‘while i like the look, i can understand others feeling differently.